Head of Discipleship

Lambeth Palace Library; Oxford; On-site; GBP 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

A religious organization in the UK is hiring a dynamic Head of Discipleship to shape and implement their vision for Christian formation. This role requires strong strategic leadership and the ability to inspire change across diverse communities. The ideal candidate should demonstrate theological depth, be rooted in personal faith, and possess experience in developing initiatives that nurture vocational callings. Applications from diverse and underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged. Closing date: 08 January 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to develop creative approaches to Christian formation and discipleship.
• Experience managing complex projects and team leadership.
• Commitment to the vision and values of the Church of England.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of vision for Christian formation.
• Work collaboratively with bishops and clergy on strategic goals.
• Oversee a skilled team on Social Justice and Environment Care.

Skills

Creative leadership

Theological depth

Strategic leadership

Team leadership

Mentoring

Job description

Salary

£61,491 - £66,222 per annum, dependent on experience

Contract

Permanent

Location

Church House Oxford, Langford Locks, OX5 1GF

Hours

Full time – 37 hours per week

Closing Date

12noon - 08 January 2026

Interview Date

21 January 2026 in person at Church House Oxford

About the role

The Diocese of Oxford is seeking a creative and experienced Head of Discipleship to lead the development and delivery of our vision for Christian formation and the broad vocations of all God’s people. This pivotal role will shape and implement our strategic framework, Everyday Disciples, ensuring that individuals and communities grow in faith and live out their calling in the world.

As a key member of the Department of Mission and Ministry’s Strategic Leadership Team, you will work collaboratively with bishops, clergy, and lay leaders to refine and communicate clear goals, design diocesan‑wide initiatives, and oversee a skilled team resourcing work on Social Justice, Environment Care, and Generous Giving. Your leadership will help integrate discipleship priorities with wider mission objectives, influencing both local practice and national policy.

About you

We are seeking a dynamic leader with theological depth and ministerial experience, rooted in a vibrant personal faith and prayer life. You will bring a proven ability to develop creative approaches to Christian formation and discipleship, working effectively across diverse theological traditions. Strong strategic leadership skills are essential to inspire change, build trust, and manage complex projects, alongside experience in team leadership, mentoring, and staff development.

You will be adept at designing and delivering learning resources and initiatives that equip people for mission and nurture vocational callings and demonstrate a wholehearted commitment to the vision and values of the Church of England, with a passion for enabling all God’s people to flourish in their discipleship.

There is a genuine occupational requirement that the appointee must be a communicant member of the Church of England or of a church in full communion with it, in accordance with schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.

How to apply

For further information and to apply, please visit Head of Discipleship - Diocese of Oxford. Closing date for receipt of applications: 12noon - 08 January 2026. Interviews will take place at Church House Oxford on Wednesday 21 January 2026.

We want the Church of England’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion for all to be reflected in our staff. We are particularly keen to receive applications from UK Minority Ethnic / Global Majority heritage and disabled candidates, who are currently underrepresented.

The Church of England is committed to the safeguarding, care and nurture of everyone within our church community. In the Diocese of Oxford we follow and are committed to the Church of England's House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policies and the relevant statutory legislation and guidance "Working together" to ensure the welfare of children and young people is paramount. This post is subject to an enhanced plus barred lists DBS check.